Zwolle is the capital of Overijssel and one of the Netherlands' more rewarding second-tier cities. It has a compact old centre ringed by canals, enough medieval fabric to reward wandering, and a calmer tempo than the big western cities.
The skyline is led by the Peperbus, the big tower of the Onze Lieve Vrouwe basilica. Nearby, the Grote Kerk anchors the market square, the Sassenpoort guards the southern edge of the old town, and the Museum de Fundatie adds a very un-medieval oval roof to a classical building.
Zwolle also eats well. De Librije is one of the Netherlands' destination restaurants, but you do not need a Michelin budget to enjoy the city. Cafes, terraces, and shops fill the lanes around the Grote Markt and Diezerstraat, making Zwolle a good day trip from Heerde, Apeldoorn, or the IJssel towns.